SLU Community Invited to Unveiling of “Pestello Way” as Portion of Laclede Avenue Is Named in Honor of the Pestellos

06/06/2025

The City of St. Louis is recognizing the leadership and contributions of outgoing Saint Louis University President Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., and his spouse, Fran Pestello, Ph.D., with the honorary naming of a portion of Laclede Avenue as “Pestello Way.” 

The SLU community is invited to attend an event on Tuesday, June 10, at 10:30 a.m., at the northwest corner of Grand Boulevard and Laclede, where one of the honorary street signs will be unveiled. 

The event also coincides with President Pestello’s 73rd birthday. 

In addition to celebrating the Pestellos, the event will support a meaningful cause. Attendees are encouraged to bring tornado relief items — including non-perishable food, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies — for SLU’s ongoing Tornado Relief Donation Drive.

The city’s Board of Aldermen approved a bill authorizing the designation on June 6. Alderwoman Laura Keys, whose 11th Ward includes SLU’s north campus, introduced the measure and will deliver remarks at Tuesday’s unveiling event. 

“Pestello Way” spans Laclede from Grand to Vandeventer Avenue, encompassing a corridor that has seen major campus development during the Pestello presidency, including Grand Hall and Spring Hall, residential facilities for first- and second-year students, and the Jesuit Center, home to Jesuits living and serving at SLU.